Alaska Sea Grant, in partnership with the Kodiak Archipelago Leadership Institute and Alaska Ocean Farms, is hosting an in-person workshop October 30 and 31 at the Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center.

During this two-day workshop we will focus on kelp farms currently permitted or pending in the Kodiak archipelago, with maps that show location and ownership. This information will support a regional strategy session on increasing the number of kelp farm permits issued to rural and Alaska native residents in the region.

The first day of the workshop will cover kelp farm capital and operating costs to assist in developing a start-up and operating budget. This information will be used to demonstrate how to calculate your farm’s break-even price-per-pound. Information will also be provided on potential access to capital opportunities.

The second day will concentrate on marketing and processing, with an overview of processing methods currently being used in Alaska, and some fun hands-on learning stations in the afternoon.

We encourage both Tribal and Alaska Native Corporation leadership to participate alongside the Kodiak region’s beginning rural and Alaska Native kelp farmers. The more we learn together as leaders and farmers the more we can continue to build our regional community around kelp.

Materials for activities will be provided and lunches included. Space is limited to 20 participants, selected based upon applicant review. Scholarships are available upon request.

All interested persons requesting travel assistance must submit a brief application by October 11. If you are not applying for travel assistance, your application must be received by October 16.

If you have questions about the workshop, travel assistance, or the application, please contact Melissa Good.

Apply now